Know your enzymes

Find out what the enzymes amylase, cellulase, lipase and protease are used for and how they work. Hint: They can help with digestion, circulation, allergies, weight management, and more.

Enzymes do much more than break down foods: Taken therapeutically, they strengthen immunity, reduce inflammation, help manage weight, and alleviate food and seasonal allergies. Most supplements contain a combination of the following enzymes.

Amylase

Used for: Digestion; allergies

How it works: Divides carbohydrates into smaller units such as glucose; regulates histamine to reduce allergy symptoms.

Cellulase

Used for: Digestion

How it works: The only enzyme the body doesn't manufacture; digests carbohydrates and fibers in fruits and vegetables.

Lipase

Used for: Weight and cholesterol management.

How it works: Breaks down fat cells into fatty acids and glycerol and distributes them throughout the body.

Discuss this Article 2

marcia bailey (not verified)

on Feb 2, 2011

I saw in an email that lipase come from the stomach and tongue and glands of calves, kids and lambs. That amylase comes from the pancreas of hogs. isinglass comes from ox blood. Gelatin comes from animal skin and bones. rennet comes from the contents of an unweaned animal's stomach and that rennet is in 80-90% of commercially made cheese. What is the true story???
I am a vegetarian and this is really upsetting to me.

You are correct that some enzymes come from animal sources. But plant-based digestive enzymes--often sourced from aspergillus and grown in a lab on plants such as soy--are widely available. In fact, plant-based enzymes are preferred because they are more effective over a wide range of pH levels in the body and can help digest many different types of food. Several well-regarded supplement manufacturers offer plant-based enzyme products, including ReNew Life, American Health, and Enzymedica.